Colon Cleansing by Heather Caruso

Colon cleansing helps remove toxic debris of impacted fecal matter from the intestinal tract. Our bowels are a holding tank for our body’s waste. Our waste is not only what we eat and drink but our manufactured toxins such as hormones, acids, alcohols and cholesterol. Some environmental toxins that we absorb are pesticides, heavy metals and pollution. A popular revision of the old proverb is “We are what we eat and don’t excrete”.

Some colon hydrotherapists administer colonics using distilled water mixed with probiotics to flush out the intestinal tract. This is a helpful temporary solution for constipation. It is not suited to those with diverticulitis or the elderly.

Aloe Vera Juice:

Aloe Vera juice is very healing to the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. It is said to be a tonic, laxative, stimulate bile flow, eliminate parasites and heal the stomach. Aloe works as a cathartic laxative which stimulates intestinal contractions that cause bowel movements. Typical dosage is 1 tbsp to 3 ounces, one to three times daily. Start with the lowest dose and increase it until you find your comfort zone. If you take too much Aloe Vera, you may suffer from cramps and diarrhea. Take Aloe Vera 3 or more hours away from medication because it may reduce the absorption of some prescription drugs. This supplement is not suited to those who suffer from diarrhea, heavy periods, kidney disease and/or are pregnant.

Chlorella:

This supplement works to bind toxins in the intestinal tract and aid in their excretion. Chlorella is also a good source of nutrients such as B12 and has an alkalinizing effect on the body.

Dandelion Extract:

Dandelion (roots or leaves) is a bitter herb. It helps to support digestion and the function of the liver and gallbladder. It stimulates bile flow and removal of excess fluids in the body. Bile helps to break down fats and lubricates the intestinal tract. It helps the skin, anemia, reduces uric acid in the blood and helps with jaundice. It is also a laxative and reduces the risk of gallstones.

Some people eat dandelion greens as a salad which is very beneficial. Dandelion comes fresh or as a tea, capsules or tincture. This herb is best taken right before a meal to aid with digestion. Dosage varies depending on which form you purchase.

Digestive Enzymes:

Digestive enzymes are a means for the body to break down foods and absorb their nutrients. Our body naturally makes digestive enzymes through the liver, the pancreas and stomach. If you do not have good digestion, digestive enzymes act as insurance for proper absorption. Partially or improperly digested foods cause many health issues, such as heartburn, food allergies and constipation.

Digestive enzymes usually include protease, which aids in protein digestion, lipase, which aids in fat digestion and amylase or cellulose which aids in carbohydrate digestion. Some digestive enzymes contain Betaine HCL, which helps with protein digestion. Take them as directed on the package. This supplement is not suited to those with high acidity, intestinal or stomach ulcers.

Psyllium:

Psyllium is an inexpensive source of soluble fiber and a mild bulking agent. When mixed with water, psyllium expands and forms a gel in the intestinal tract. This expansion stimulates bowel movements. This bulk gently scrubs along the intestines and makes stools softer. Psyllium absorbs water so drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water per day. If you do not, expect to become more constipated.

In addition to its benefits for the bowels, psyllium is useful for diabetes. It helps to lower cholesterol, high blood pressure and reduces elevated blood sugar. Take Psyllium away from meals with a large glass of water. If you have a spastic bowel, impacted feces or a narrowed intestinal tract avoid Psyllium. Psyllium comes in powder or capsule form. Typical dosage is 1 teaspoon or 5 grams of Psyllium husks, in 10 ounces of water, twice a day or as instructed on the label.

Vitamin C:

Vitamin C has a colon flushing ability. Take 1,000mgs of powdered ester or buffered Vitamin C in a glass or water. Take this dose every half an hour. Record how many milligrams it takes to produce loose stools. Then reduce the dose by one spoonful every day, until a dose is found where the stools are a comfortable consistency. Alternatively some people start with 500 mgs of Vitamin C per day and work up to 5,000 mgs a day. Do not take vitamin C if you have inflammatory bowel disease, kidney stones, ulcers or are undergoing surgery.

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Copyright 2008 Heather Caruso is a Homeopath practicing in Guelph Ontario Canada. For more information go to www.carusohomeopathy.com. This is an excerpt from a book by Heather.